Do sugar-sweetened beverages like soda and fruit drinks cause obesity and diabetes? The answer may depend on who funds the research asking the question. An analysis of 60 studies found 26 out of 26 papers that failed to find a link between sugar-sweetened beverages and obesity or diabetes were funded by industry sources, compared to one industry-funded study out of the 34 that did find a connection.

Dr. Sears Comments:

This is no more surprising than to see studies funded by drug companies to present positive results. However since obesity and diabetes are very multi-factorial, associations are very different from causations. In Australia, sugar consumption has significantly decreased at the same time that obesity has skyrocketed. Looking for simple dietary solutions is usually good for a quick best-selling diet book, but rarely has significant impact. The bottom line is the best way to reduce excess body fat is calorie restriction. To make that fat loss permanent, you have to make sure that such restriction can be maintained without hunger or fatigue.

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Dr. Sears is the science site of pro-resolution nutrition. Dr. Sears.com will help you stay updated on the changing scientific landscape in pro-resolution nutrition for maintaining optimal wellness in every stage of life. He continues to lead the field of pro-resolution nutrition as started by Dr. Sears with publication of his #1 New York Times best seller, The Zone, in 1995.